Fire destroys St. Louis Heights home, injures four people

July 20, 2014 at 3:11 PM HST - Updated July 21 at 8:50 PM

Honolulu firefighters are investigating the cause of a structure fire that injured four people in St. Louis Heights Sunday morning.

Officials responded to a two-alarm call at 1463 Pule Place around 7:28 a.m. Upon arrival, crews saw the two-story home engulfed in flames. Officials found the homeowner on scene, with burn injuries to both of his hands. Firefighters searched the home after reports of a possible second occupant who lived on the first floor. Crews conducted three separate searches but found no other occupant.

Officials say crews had to shut down operations for a little while after firefighters were reportedly getting shocked from the electricity shorting out into the ground. HECO arrived on scene shortly after to shut down the power, and crews were able to continue their investigation.

HFD got the fire under control shortly before 8 a.m.

Officials say the homeowner, a man in his mid 50's, was treated for burns to his hands. Emergency Medical Services transported the man to Straub Hospital for further treatment.

Three other patients, who were reportedly neighbors, suffered from smoke inhalation. All three patients refused treatment.

No other homes were damaged by the fire. The cause and damage estimate of the fire is still under investigation.